Footloose, The Musical

Footloose was first screened as a film and ten years later in 1994 made into a musical . Over the next few years alterations and amendments were made  leading to today's score. 

From the first moment to the last the production was delivered at pace with lovely singing, showing off an enviable wealth of talent , clever staging ,and excellent use of the minimalist set which worked really well.  . The strong principal performances being  well complemented by an ensemble thoroughly enjoying the production . A show requiring energy throughout certainly delivered .

Ren , played by Adam Walker was performed to a very high  standard showing off his many talents in dance ,acting and singing, and along with the super talented Ellie Needham playing  the role of Ariel, showing the many sides of their developing relationship .This  blossomed out of the strong desire to change life at Bomont and win the girl .I particularly enjoyed the duet Almost Paradise .

Rev Shaw played by Daniel Storey with his wife Vi Moore played by Louise Grayson  delivered wonderfully  poignant scenes throughout , along with lovely singing , and especially the song  Heaven Help Me .

Ariel, Rusty, Urleen and Wendy , played by Ellie Needham, Lilli Connelly , Georgina Willows and Amy McGregor  formed a formidable team , with some great acting and excellent singing .Somebodies Eyes being very memorable. 

Willard played by Ashley Wilson, made me smile every time he came on stage , the fumbling bumbling nervous country boy displaying the tough exterior with the soft centre showing all his upbringing through the song , Mama Says , and finally leaving the mantle of his childhood  when he finally finds some confidence and his dancing feet. 

Chuck Cranston , played by Josh Holliday gave a very strong performance as the tough guy displaying little feelings , but portraying the character with real attitude . 

The line delivered cheekily by Ren ,to Betty Blast ,Mary Newey ,"what ever happened to the Roller skates " can not go unmentioned as sadly Mary broke her wrist during the get in , but of course in true trouper style, the show must go on . 

Cowboy Bob ,Dylan Lambert opened the second act with a powerful rendering of Still Rockin. 

Complements go to all those playing  the remaining parts who delivered their  roles with enthusiasm and clarity.

Kate and James Parkin should be delighted with their efforts in directing the show along with Amber Parry ,Choreographer who provided the cast with challenging numbers delivered extremely well. 

As always, lovely to hear an  orchestra and well done to Jamie Brown .

Congratulations to the sound and lighting teams and also to  the seamless back stage team who kept the show moving at an  excellent  pace. 

A wonderful evening of entertainment and  if you haven't yet got your tickets there are still some left for this great show.  

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